The Keys community contributed to ensure that his 5-day vacation was a first rate experience and great distraction from his battle with a heart condition.

Michael received the VIP treatment at World Wide Sportsman where he shopped for fishing and tackling gear. He was a true fisherman from head to toe, out fishing on the “Bad Habit” for three days of his trip.

Michael said the captains were amazing and he loved watching the waves from the bridge.

He was overjoyed to catch fish and take them to a restaurant for the chef to prepare them. “My cooked tuna was perfect,” Michael said. “The fresh out of the ocean tuna was the best seafood I have ever eaten. I wanted more.”

While not at sea, Fort Pierce native Michael and his family took advantage of their beautiful home away from home, kayaking, playing volleyball and enjoying the private beach.

“I used to go to the Fort Pierce Jetty and watch the boats go out wondering what it would be like to do that someday and now I have,” Michael said. “It was the best experience I have ever had.”